Articles tagged with Health Care Delivery
The World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists and WHO have updated international anesthesia standards to improve surgical care worldwide. The guidelines aim to provide concrete standards for facilities, equipment, medications, and professional aspects of anesthesia care.
A multidisciplinary lung health clinic has been developed to provide quality, seamless care for low-income individuals with lung conditions. The clinic uses best practices such as interdisciplinary teams, patient navigators, and walk-in services to improve patient outcomes.
The new Canadian guideline recommends against routine screening for visual impairment in older adults living independently, as it does not prevent limitations on daily living. Instead, patients should make their own appointments for regular vision screening or seek help if they suspect visual problems.
A simple visual screening tool can identify older adults at increased risk for dementia after a minor decline on the Mini-Mental-State-Examination. Early career family physicians with a broader scope of practice report lower burnout rates, while resilience training alone may not be enough to address burnout.
Patients and caregivers prioritize clear accountability, continuity, and caring attitudes in care transitions. Effective services include actionable information, collaborative discharge planning, empathic communication, and uninterrupted care.
A new study at Boston Medical Center aims to bridge a gap in care for patients with substance use disorders by linking them with trained peer recovery coaches. The project, Project RECOVER, will provide support and sustain recovery for up to six months through interventions delivered by certified peer coaches.
The VA health care system performs similarly to or better than non-VA systems on most measures of inpatient and outpatient care quality, according to a new study. The findings suggest that the VA needs targeted quality improvement efforts to ensure uniform high-quality care at all facilities.
A Mayo Clinic survey found that nearly a third of patients did not use any opioids prescribed after surgery, with only 8% disposing of their remaining medications. The study suggests that patient factors such as age and pain score can influence opioid use, highlighting the need for tailored prescribing guidelines.
A recent study found that major disruptive events, such as clinician losses and changes in ownership, frequently disrupt primary care practices in Oklahoma. These events negatively affect quality improvement efforts and patient care, highlighting the need for further research to address their root causes.
Early findings from EvidenceNOW reveal cost challenges in recruiting practices for quality improvement initiatives and the impact of hospital ownership on burnout. The study also found solo practices outperform groups in meeting ABCS targets, but leadership and adaptive reserve are not associated with blood pressure control.
A recent study found substantial variation in the use of quality improvement strategies among small- to medium-size US primary care practices. These practices may require external support to enhance their ability to implement quality improvements and adapt to new payment and delivery models.
Dr. J. Eugene Lammers, MD, MPH, FACP, AGSF, is the 2018 Clinician of the Year for his innovative approaches to care and commitment to empowering healthcare teams. He has worked with interdisciplinary teams across the U.S., prioritizing person-centered care for older adults.
A novel blueprint for faster implementation of more evidence-based healthcare solutions has been designed and implemented. The Agile Implementation methodology provides a catalytic platform for transforming the current healthcare delivery system into a patient- and family-centric, high-reliability model.
A study found that access to dental services increased for Medicaid children between 2013-2015, with 77% utilizing Type I services and 21% using Type II services. Sealant access rates improved, but sealant utilization remained low, particularly among older children.
A recent study found that neglectful behaviors are widespread among English care home staff, despite efforts to provide person-centered care. The survey of 1,544 staff revealed that many witnessed residents being left waiting for care or having insufficient time for food.
A new study by researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital demonstrates that implementing an automated notification system can improve the follow-up of actionable tests pending at discharge. The system significantly improved the time to documented action for these tests, with patients receiving follow-up on their results much faster.
A study conducted in veterans found that a telehealth program for diabetes self-management results in comparable improvements in blood glucose control to traditional care. The program combines electronic consultations and ongoing telephone-based care, providing team-based care with follow-up.
A report recommends replacing problem-oriented EHRs with goal-directed designs that incorporate patient profiles, health planners, and actionable information. This shift would improve patient care and refocus medical professionals on human health's full scope.
New Mayo Clinic research reveals that a significant majority of patients are receptive to asking about sexual orientation and gender identity, dispelling long-held concerns among healthcare providers. The study aims to improve health disparities among LGBTI patients by encouraging providers to ask these questions.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that larger hospitals with more procedures performed under bundled payments showed significant cost savings. Non-profit and major teaching hospitals were also more likely to succeed under this model, with improved care quality and lower costs per case.
The NCDR Annual Conference brings together registry professionals to share best practices and learn from leading experts. Attendees will receive updates on new registries, strategies for improving patient care, and how to use registry data for decision-making purposes.
A RAND Corporation study found that only 2% of NY health providers are equipped to provide timely and quality care to veterans. The report highlights gaps in the readiness of community-based providers to address veterans' unique needs, with few providers accepting VA coverage.
Canada's legacy in health is threatened by unacceptable Indigenous health disparities and a need for healthcare reform. The Lancet Series calls for bold action to address these challenges and ensure a sustainable health system for all Canadians.
A study found a strong correlation between midwife integration and better birth outcomes, with higher rates of vaginal births and breastfeeding. States with high midwife integration, such as Washington and Oregon, had lower rates of premature births, cesarean deliveries, and newborn deaths.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that up to 37 percent of studies on clinical trials show grossly exaggerated early results. The researchers emphasized the need for physicians and patients to be cautious when considering new or early trial evidence, as it may not accurately reflect real-world outcomes.
A large-scale trial found that upskilling care home staff to deliver person-centred care, combined with just one hour of social interaction per week, significantly improves quality of life and reduces agitation and aggression in people with dementia. The approach also saves money compared to standard care.
A recent study by University of Exeter researchers has identified three main themes influencing GPs' decisions to leave or remain in direct patient care. The findings highlight concerns about the under-value of general practice within the healthcare system, professional risk in delivering care, and considerations about career options.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a cost-effective treatment option for adolescents with depression who decline or stop using antidepressants. The CBT program was shown to reduce depression-related health care costs by $5,000 on average over a two-year period.
A new study published in Prehospital Emergency Care suggests that risk management approach can combat EMS fatigue. The guidelines recommend limiting shifts to less than 24 hours, providing access to caffeine, allowing naps while on duty, and educating personnel on fatigue risk management.
A new study in India found that a checklist and coaching intervention significantly improved the quality of care during labor and delivery, with major gains in proper administration of oxytocin, initiation of breastfeeding, and skin-to-skin contact. However, despite these improvements, death rates remained unchanged.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that improved facility infrastructure does not necessarily lead to better healthcare quality in low- and middle-income countries. Despite moderate levels of infrastructure ratings, facilities delivered widely varying quality of care.
Researchers developed a tracking system using NFER sensors to monitor ICU nurses' daily tasks, enabling more efficient planning of nurse shifts and hospital unit design. The study aims to advance understanding of ICU nurses' workflow and improve healthcare delivery processes.
A new study at Boston Medical Center will test Gabby's effectiveness in reducing pregnancy health risks. The AI-powered system has been successful in previous trials, identifying and resolving health risks by over 25% compared to a control group.
A Harvard Medical School study found that a pay-for-performance program inadvertently shifted funds away from physicians treating sicker patients, exacerbating disparities in healthcare delivery. The program's design did not account for differences across patient populations, leading to no improvements in performance or care quality.
Researchers found nearly 1 in 7 adult patients reported using marijuana at least once a year, with young adults more likely to use daily. Daily cannabis use was linked to higher risks of addiction and complications, particularly among young men with depression.
A patient-centered medical home model implemented in over 800 Veterans Health Administration primary care clinics showed significant improvements in chronic disease outcomes, including better blood pressure and cholesterol control for up to 1-5% of patients. The model, known as Patient Aligned Care Teams (PACT), provided multidisciplin...
Researchers developed a new framework to report and design models of care for multimorbidity, highlighting changing elements such as reduced home care and increased extended appointments. The framework provides a tool for standardized reporting and research on multimorbidity interventions.
A recent study reveals that over a quarter of cancer survivors experience poor quality of life post-treatment, with significant unmet needs in eight out of ten countries. The study highlights the need for comprehensive survivorship care and coordinated resources to support cancer patients.
A new tool to support organisations and practitioners achieve person-centred care has been developed. The Person Centred Coordinated Care Organisational Tool (P3C-OCT) helps guide implementation and assess effectiveness of the approach.
A new study found that disappearance of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs. The test, using an acoustic-based stethoscope, has a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity.
A new study has identified six attributes associated with high-value primary care practices, including decision support for evidence-based medicine and careful selection of specialists. These attributes are linked to three themes: care traffic control, cognitive burden reduction, and value-based reimbursement.
Countries with underprepared health systems face a faster rise in noncommunicable diseases, requiring targeted investments to reduce modifiable risk factors and increase primary care access. The shift is driven by demographic factors rather than behavioral risks.
The study found that annual well-visit rates among adolescents increased from 41% to 48% after the ACA, with significant gains among minority and low-income adolescents. The ACA's requirement for coverage of preventive services without a copay led to increases in the receipt of recommended services up to age 21.
A growing proportion of public monies are being diverted to profit margins, warns Professor Neena Modi. She argues that a mixed system reduces healthcare effectiveness and calls for 'visionary leadership' and investment in the NHS to address its challenges.
Dr. Juan Robles has received a $1 million grant to support Bronx students pursuing healthcare careers and create a more inclusive workforce. The program aims to bridge the cultural gap between doctors and their patients, which research shows enhances communication and trust with patients.
A new study found substantial variability across US medical centers in diagnosing and treating disorders of sex development (DSD), with some institutions lacking specialist teams. Families often face difficult decisions about irreversible procedures, highlighting the need for improved guidelines and collaboration among providers.
A new study by University of Maryland School Medicine researchers found that nearly half of all US medical care is delivered by emergency departments. Emergency department visits increased by 44% over a 14-year period, with African-American patients and those without insurance using these services at a higher rate.
A new curriculum has been developed to provide standardized training for healthcare providers in teleneurology. The curriculum covers key areas such as technology, licensure, and patient relationships, aiming to improve the quality of remote neurology care.
A new systematic review of evidence suggests that primary care physicians and their teams can provide effective addiction care using anti-opioid medication. The studies found that patients had the highest chance of successful treatment when working with a team of non-physicians, including nurse case managers.
A new model of treatment for youth with anxiety can be effectively delivered using at least 14% less therapist time than traditional treatment services. The study tested a stepped care model, where young people first begin using self-help to manage their symptoms before stepping up to treatment with a therapist.
Experts predict reduced access to care, widening inequalities and increased private provision as the Health and Social Care Act 2012 and STPs lead to blurred distinctions between health and social care. The lack of consideration for different funding bases has led to concerns about equitable distribution of resources.
Researchers found ED opioid prescriptions were 44% less likely to exceed a three-day supply and 46% less likely to progress to long-term use. Patients in non-ED settings received higher doses, with one in five exceeding CDC guidelines, leading to a higher risk of long-term use.
Researchers developed an electronic triage tool to improve patient care in emergency departments, identifying critically ill patients and assigning priority treatment levels. The tool showed equal or improved identification of patient outcomes compared to the existing emergency severity index (ESI) based on a multi-site retrospective s...
The new Canadian guideline recommends one-time ultrasonography screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms in men aged 65-80, while not screening women or older men. The guideline is based on evidence from randomized controlled trials and aims to reduce mortality, rupture, and emergency procedures.
Patients in a collaborative care model received more substance abuse treatment and reported higher abstinence rates compared to those receiving usual primary care services. The study suggests that integrating treatment into primary medical care can increase access to evidence-based substance use treatment.
A new study by the University of Southampton found that hospitals with lower registered nursing staff levels have a higher risk of patient death. The study reveals that care left undone due to lack of time is the key factor in understanding variation in mortality rates in hospitals.
A nationwide program showed that telemedicine can deliver quality care to people with Parkinson's disease in their homes via video conferencing. The study found that virtual house calls were as effective as in-person visits, saving patients time and travel, while improving access to care for those with limited mobility.
PCORI's Board of Governors approved nearly $74 million for seven studies on palliative care. The projects will compare different strategies to deliver care and examine their impact on quality of life, hospitalizations, and caregiver burden.
A new study reveals a 34% increase in overdose-related ICU admissions between 2009 and 2015, with average cost of care rising by 58%. The opioid epidemic has made patients sicker and killed more people despite intensive care, researchers say.
A new healthcare delivery model proposes partnering ERs with primary care to address failing health in underserved areas. This approach aims to connect patients to other physicians and resources, improving overall rural population health.